From Oxford to Biloxi: The State Department’s Impact on Mississippi
On behalf of the American people, the State Department promotes and demonstrates democratic values and advances a free, peaceful, and prosperous world. By leading America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance, the Department keeps the American people safe both at home and abroad and advances our shared economic prosperity. The State Department directly impacts the “Magnolia State” of Mississippi through environmental partnerships, military training, and job creation.
First, the State Department impacts Mississippi on environmental issues through the EcoPartnerships program. EcoPartnerships between the United States and China harness the energy and ingenuity in both countries to conduct innovative projects. There are 38 current and graduated EcoPartnerships involving approximately 15 provinces and municipalities in China and 20 states in the U.S., including Mississippi. The graduated U.S.-China EcoPartnership between the Mississippi River Basin and the Yangtze River Basin promoted fisheries monitoring, habitat conservation, sustainable fisheries policy, and integrated river basin management.
Secondly, the State Department’s International Military Education program funds the education and training of international military students at various locations in Mississippi including at the Center for Naval Technical Training at Keesler Air Force Base, and the U.S. Naval Small Craft Instruction and Technical Training School at the Stennis Space Center. These training programs not only provide foreign students with exposure to the culture and history of the United States and the State of Mississippi, but also support the local economy.
Finally, the State Department, in partnership with agencies across the federal government, creates jobs for American workers by opening markets and eliminating trade barriers overseas, as well as by attracting foreign direct investment to the United States. In 2017, Mississippi exported $11.2 billion in goods, and as of 2016, Mississippi goods exports supported approximately 51,113 jobs. Foreign direct investment into Mississippi supported an additional 38,400 jobs in 2015.
From Oxford to Biloxi, the State Department continues to pursue avenues to build global relationships with the great people, institutions, and businesses of Mississippi. And Mississippians, in return, strengthen our people-to-people relationships around the world.
Find out more about the Department of State’s impact in American communities at Department of State by State.
Editor’s Note: This entry originally appeared on DipNote.
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